CHANGES TO BACTERIAL MENINGITIS IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS

New legislation approved by the Texas Legislature now requires new and transfer students, under the age of 22, entering a college or university to provide proof of vaccination against bacterial meningitis in the previous five years. Other than noted below, students enrolled in non-credit continuing education classes, are not required to provide proof of bacterial meningitis immunization.

Exception: Students enrolled in a continuing education course or program that is more than 360 contact hours will be required to provide a certificate signed by a health practitioner or an official immunization record evidencing that the student has received a bacterial meningitis vaccination dose or booster during the five-year period preceding enrollment in said program. This documentation must be provided 10 days prior to the start of class.

Students may claim an exemption from the vaccination requirements by providing a completed and notarized waiver: "Exemption from Immunizations for Reasons of Conscience Affidavit Form". Students should also consult their health care practitioner regarding any questions about this immunization.

This information is being provided to all new college students in the state of Texas. Bacterial meningitis is a serious, potentially deadly disease that can progress extremely fast —so take utmost caution. It is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The bacteria that causes meningitis can also infect the blood. This disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year,
including 100-125 on college campuses, leading to 5-15 deaths among college students every year. There is a treatment, but those who survive may develop severe health problems or disabilities.

What are the symptoms?

High fever • Severe headache

Rash or purple patches on skin • Vomiting

Light sensitivity • Stiff neck

Confusion and sleepiness • Nausea

Lethargy

Seizures

There may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin. These can occur anywhere on the body.The more symptoms, the higher the risk, so when these symptoms appear seek immediate medical attention.

How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a medical provider and is usually based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory results from spinal fluid and blood tests.

Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the likelihood of recovery.

How is the disease transmitted?

The disease is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, or sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat secretions.